Heatwave Health Warning for the South West

The Met Office has issued a Level 3 (heatwave action) heat health alert for the South West and South East of the country until 2100 on Tuesday 3 July.

With these high temperatures forecast, Public Health England (PHE) is again taking the chance to remind people to look after themselves and others who may be at risk.

When temperatures climb to the sorts of levels seen in many parts of the country some people can struggle to cope. The over 65s, young children and those with heart and lung conditions can all find normal activities a strain when temperatures get this high.

The top ways for staying safe in the heat are to:

look out for others, especially older people, young children and babies and those with underlying health conditions

close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors

drink plenty of water as sugary, alcoholic and caffeinated drinks can make you more dehydrated

never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals

try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm

take care and follow local safety advice, if you are going into the water to cool down

walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat, if you have to go out in the heat

avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day

wear light, loose fitting cotton clothes

make sure you take water with you, if you are travelling.

Advice on how to reduce the risk either for yourself or somebody you know can be found on NHS Choices . Seek help from your GP or NHS 111 if you or someone you know is feeling unwell.